Sports Ball

And while I was away in Kansas, the boys went to see the Rays play in their temporary stadium in Tampa (Yankees training facility). They really enjoyed watching baseball outdoors (even though our home team lost). 

 

Family TIme

While I was out in Kansas, I had the opportunity to visit my Uncle Roger and Aunt Mona. We haven't seen them since before Covid. It was wonderful to be able to catch back up with them again! 

 

District Gathering

I got home from Kansas in time to lead our district clergy gathering at Grace UMC. The Revs. Wileys led the music, I preached and then we spent some time in prayer around our tables.

Then we had 3 pastors share about their efforts in leading church revitalization/transformation and had a panel discussion about what they've learned in those experiences. 

Dr. Hedy Collver from First UMC Coral Gables

Rev. Michael LeBlanc from Shepherd's Community UMC in Lakeland

Rev. Dwayne Craig from East Naples UMC

We wrapped things up with communion. The pastors from First UMC Naples presided: Sara McKinley and Scott Ehler. It was a good day!

 

Time Out In Kansas

On Sunday afternoon, I flew out to Kansas City for a clergywomen conference at Church of the Resurrection. My hotel ended up being just across the parking lot from the church and I could see the glow of the gorgeous stained glass window from the parking lot.

Monday morning I had a District Committee on Ministry training on Zoom and COR put me up and gave me space to ensure that I had good wifi for the meeting. 

Later that night Latricia and I met up for dinner and some BOM planning. And then we took an evening walk in one of the gorgeous parks around town (and we had fun playing on the playground too).

 The Lead(her) conference started on Tuesday morning and it was wonderful. We had some great speakers and then some breakout sessions.

We also got to take a tour of the sanctuary and hear all about the gorgeous stained glass window.

Tuesday night the clergywomen from Florida all went out to dinner at Jack Stack's Barbeque. It was a lot of fun to hang out together. 

And then Latricia and I found another park for another sunset walk. 

Wednesday morning the last part of the clergywomen conference included a fabulous session with Lutheran pastor Nadia Bolz Weber. I've read her memoir Pastrix and it was a treat to hear her in person.  

And our Florida group posed for a few pictures.

I also got a chance to hear Pastor Adam Hamilton bring greetings to the conference. And then I got to spend a few minutes of time talking with him - to say thanks for the funds that COR sent to our district after Hurricane Ian for hurricane recovery.

 

So grateful for the time away and the opportunities.